PM seeks roadmap for ‘100pc’ digital payments system, stresses countrywide internet access

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has asked officials to set out deadlines and milestones for a nationwide digital-payments system, Dawn reported on Friday. At a meeting in Islamabad, he also called for user problems to be addressed and internet connectivity and access to technology to be expanded across the country.

The government plans to digitise payments in most public institutions by December 2026, while all Benazir Income Support Programme payments are already being made through digital wallets, according to the Prime Minister’s Office. The meeting was also told that cheque payments through Asaan Assignment Account will end from Nov 15, with Raast to be used instead; QR payments for utility bills are also being promoted.